Verb (masu stem) + かねない

[Could possibly / Might (negative outcome)]

Connection: Verb (masu stem) + かねない

Usage: Expresses that there is a possibility of an undesirable outcome. Implies concern or warning. Unlike おそれがある, this is used more in everyday conversation and personal opinions, though still somewhat formal.

Related expression:

• かねる = cannot bring oneself to / find it difficult to (different meaning!)
• 賛成しかねます = I cannot agree (polite refusal)

Similar expressions:

• おそれがある = risk of (formal/official)
• かねない = could possibly (personal warning)

Examples:

このまま放置すれば、大きな事故になりかねない。(If left as is, it could possibly lead to a major accident.)

そんなことを言ったら、誤解されかねない。(If you say such things, you could be misunderstood.)

無理なダイエットは体を壊しかねない。(Extreme dieting could possibly damage your health.)